Share

Description

Chimps Inc. is a non-profit wildlife sanctuary located in Bend, Oregon. Our mission is to further chimpanzee conservation through education while providing a refuge for animals that have come from a variety of backgrounds, including roadside zoos, the entertainment world, and the private sector. We currently have seven chimpanzee residents and two lynx. Our internship program offers the unique opportunity to live and work with these animals and experience all aspects of sanctuary life. The dedication and commitment of interns not only helps us in the operation of the sanctuary, but it is also a vital component of our educational mission.

Interns are responsible for cleaning animal enclosures, creating enrichment, preparing diets, dishes and laundry, gardening, and otherwise maintaining the facilities. In addition to daily husbandry, there are weekly educational sessions and guest speakers in which interns learn more about varying topics pertaining to both captive and wild chimpanzees. Interns are expected to complete an independent project to be presented to the Chimps Inc. team at the conclusion of the internship.

Interns work 5 days a week. However, since the sanctuary operates seven days a week, intern days off may vary. This program is labor intensive but very rewarding to those who are dedicated, motivated and willing to learn.

Chimps Inc. maintains a 100% no physical contact policy; interns are not allowed to touch the animals.

Enrollment Dates:
Intern applications are accepted throughout the year, but accepted applicants have the option to enter on the 1st or the 15th of each month when available. Interns are required to stay for a minimum of 8 weeks.

Program Costs:
To support our educational program, internships cost $100 per week. This cost covers materials, curriculum, training and lodging. All fees must be paid in full before arriving at the sanctuary.

Chimps Inc. will provide interns with on-site housing during their stay. The intern house is located on the property and is equipped with a full kitchen, two bedrooms, one bathroom and one office. No pets are allowed. The sanctuary is located in a rural setting that requires transportation to all stores and retail areas. We are approximately 20 miles from the nearest airport and about 10 miles from the city of Bend. Interns are responsible for their own transportation and food expenses. Interns without their own transportation will be provided a ride into town once a week to do their necessary grocery shopping. On-site laundry machines are available and it is suggested that interns bring a cell phone and laptop.

If you are interested in applying for an internship with Chimps Inc., fill out our online application located on our website (http://www.chimps-inc.org/intern).

Responsibilities

Interns are responsible for cleaning animal enclosures, creating enrichment, preparing diets, dishes and laundry, gardening, sanctuary repairs and maintenance, event assistance, fundraising, and various other tasks that come up throughout the work day.

Requirements

Qualifications:

Applicants must be at least 18 years of age. Primate experience is not required but is a plus. Interns should be dedicated, work well individually and with others, be a self-starter, have a strong work ethic, good communication skills, and a positive attitude. Because this program is labor intensive, applicants should also be in good physical condition.